A Sun-Soaked Getaway
By Christiana Roussel | Photos by Visit Tampa
When you cannot stand the gray chill of winter for another minute, it is time to book a trip to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area of Florida for a long weekend away. There are direct flights from Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport to this central-Florida coastal destination with a plethora of things to do.
WHERE TO STAY
Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique charm or a beachside retreat, Tampa and St. Pete have accommodations to fit every budget and style.
The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club (St. Pete)
A historic gem located on the downtown waterfront of St. Pete, The Vinoy Renaissance offers a blend of luxury and old-world charm. Opened in 1925, this pink Mediterranean Revival-style hotel has hosted celebrities, athletes and political figures. The resort offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, a golf course and a pool that overlooks the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay. The Vinoy is just steps from St. Pete Pier, offering stunning views and access to restaurants, parks and cultural attractions.
The Tampa Edition (Tampa)
For a more modern and luxurious experi-
ence, The Tampa Edition is located in the heart of downtown Tampa. With its contemporary design and upscale amenities, it’s ideal for travelers who want to be near the vibrant dining and entertainment districts, including Water Street Tampa and Amalie Arena. The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar provide stunning views of the skyline and a chic space to relax and enjoy a cocktail after a day of exploring.
Hotel Haya (Ybor City, Tampa)
For a boutique experience rich in history, check out Hotel Haya in the heart of Ybor City. This stylish hotel blends Ybor’s historic Cuban and Spanish influences with modern design. With colorful rooms, an excellent restaurant (Flor Fina) and proximity to the lively streets of
Ybor City, it’s perfect for those wanting a more local and cultural experience.
The Don CeSar (St. Pete Beach)
Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar is an iconic beachfront resort located on the shores of St. Pete Beach. Built in 1928, the hotel combines Gatsby-era glamour with modern luxury. Its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it a perfect base for beach lovers who also want easy access to downtown St. Pete. The hotel features two beachfront pools, a full-service spa and multiple dining options, ensuring you’ll never want to leave this paradise. Fun fact: New York Times best-selling author Nicholas Sparks set his novel Dreamland here.
The Don CeSar
The Vinoy
WHAT TO DO
The beauty of visiting Tampa and St. Pete in the winter is that you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat and humidity. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do while you’re in town:
Tampa Riverwalk (Tampa)
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Hillsborough River, connecting many of Tampa’s top attractions, including the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Park and the Florida Aquarium. Local tip: Rent a bike or scooter to explore the entire Riverwalk and stop for lunch at Armature Works, a historic building-turned-trendy-food -hall with a variety of local food vendors and outdoor seating.
The Dalī Museum (St. Petersburg)
Art lovers can’t miss The Dali Museum, home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside of Spain. The museum’s striking architecture is a work of art in itself. Inside you’ll find a mix of surrealist paintings, sculptures and interactive exhibits that delve into Dalí’s life and career. The Dali Museum is located on St. Pete’s waterfront, offering beautiful views of Tampa Bay. Local tip: Visit the museum on a Thursday evening for reduced admission prices and a chance to enjoy the museum’s outdoor gardens and waterfront views during sunset.
TIPS FROM A LOCAL
Artist and anthropologist Lindsey Simonds of Litore Studio calls St. Pete home and is proud to share a few of her area favorites:
• The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art: “This is such a fun, different thing you wouldn’t expect to see in St. Pete but their collection—especially the turquoise—is stunning.”
• “Our go-to date night spot is Snappers, right on St. Pete Beach, which is run by a local fisherman. We also love Oxford Exchange (in Tampa) for brunch as well as their sister restaurant in St. Pete, The Library, which is beautifully lined with walls of blue books.
Follow Lindsey Simonds on Instagram (@litorestudio).
The Dalī Museum
Bayshore Boulevard
HIT THE ROAD
WHAT TO DO cont.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (Tampa)
Winter is an ideal time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, one of the city’s most popular attractions. Cooler temps make it a breeze when exploring the park’s roller coasters, live entertainment and animal exhibits. For adrenaline junkies, rides such as Tigris and SheiKra will satisfy your need for speed, while animal lovers can get up close with giraffes, zebras and exotic birds on the Serengeti Safari.
St. Pete Beach
While the Gulf Coast waters may be a bit cool for swimming in the winter, St. Pete Beach is perfect for long walks along the shore, shell collecting and watching breathtaking sunsets. If you’re feeling adventurous, try renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Boca Ciega Bay. Local tip: Head to Pass-a-Grille Beach, a quieter section of St. Pete Beach, for a more laid-back atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Explore Ybor City (Tampa)
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic district known for its Cuban, Spanish and Italian heritage. This neighborhood was once the cigar capital of the world, and today, it’s a lively hub filled with restaurants, bars and historic sites. Take a walking tour to learn about Ybor’s history, visit a local cigar shop to watch artisans hand-roll cigars or grab a coffee and a pastry from a local bakery. Local tip: Visit Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest, continuously operated restaurant (opened in 1905), for an authentic Cuban meal and its famous 1905 Salad.
The St. Pete Pier
St. Pete Pier is a revitalized 26-acre waterfront
Tampa Bay Riverwalk/ Boating
district that has become a must-visit spot for visitors. The pier features a range of activities, from shopping and dining to public art installations and interactive play areas for kids. Take a walk to the end of the pier for panoramic views of the city and the bay, or rent a kayak to explore the waters. You can even try your hand at fishing off the pier.
Tampa Bay Sports
For sports enthusiasts, winter in Tampa Bay is the perfect time to catch a game. The Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) plays home games at Amalie Arena, offering an exciting atmosphere
for hockey fans. If football is more your style, catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action at Raymond James Stadium. Both venues are easily accessible and located near Tampa’s vibrant downtown and Channelside District.
Sunken Gardens (St. Pete)
For a peaceful retreat into nature, visit Sunken Gardens, a 100-year-old botanical garden in the heart of St. Pete. Wander through lush, tropical gardens, past waterfalls and exotic plants. This hidden gem is a tranquil escape and provides plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Sunken Gardens
St. Pete Beach
WHERE TO EAT
Fresh
seafood, fusion cuisine and historic dining establishments are hallmarks of the Tampa and St. Pete dining scene.
Ulele (Tampa)
Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele is a popular restaurant that celebrates the indigenous people of Florida with a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients. The menu features dishes such as alligator hush puppies, chargrilled oysters and crab mac and cheese. The restaurant also brews its own beers, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a craft beer with your meal. Local tip: Request a table on the outdoor patio for views of the river and skyline.
Wild Child (St. Pete)
This self-proclaimed neighborhood bistro and cocktail bar comes with some advice, “slow down and coast,” which is something we long to do on vacation. Here, you’ll find street corn croquetas, ahi tuna tostadas, pan-roasted scallops and their signature crying tiger ribeye.
Bern’s Steak House (Tampa)
No trip to Tampa is complete without dining at Bern’s Steak House, an iconic fine dining establishment famous for its extensive wine list and dry-aged steaks. Bern’s offers a unique experience with its wine cellar and kitchen tours, as well as a dessert room where you can enjoy decadent treats in a private booth.
Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant (St. Pete)
For a taste of Spain, head to Ceviche in downtown St. Pete. This lively tapas bar offers a variety of small plates, from traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas and tortilla Española to seafood-focused fare such as shrimp ceviche and grilled octopus. Pair your meal with one of the craft cocktails or a glass of sangria for the full experience.
La Segunda Bakery (Tampa)
For breakfast or a quick snack, locals swear by La Segunda Bakery. With four area locations, there’s no excuse for not stopping in for a classic Cuban sandwich.
Wild Child